In an engaging classroom activity, students immersed themselves in a poster project to deepen their understanding of the Earth-Moon-Sun system while honing their skills in following a rubric. This collaborative effort aimed to unravel complex concepts such as why Earth experiences day and night and the factors driving seasonal changes. Through their work, students explored Earth’s orbit around the Sun, its tilted axis of 23.5 degrees, and how these elements combine to create the seasons.
The students worked in small, self-led groups, fostering teamwork and independent problem-solving. Their activities included multiple stations that supported both research and hands-on learning. At one station, students conducted initial research by watching an informative video and summarizing key takeaways. At another, they engaged in hands-on exploration, using small models to simulate celestial motions and observe the mechanics behind tides and moon phases.
This session marked the second day of their exploration into tides and the interplay between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. As they navigated the stations, students actively problem-solved, discussed challenging topics, and collaborated to consolidate their understanding. Their enthusiasm was evident in the animated discussions and problem-solving at each station, with the hands-on exploration being a clear favorite among the groups.
Ms. Gurganus noted how this collaborative structure supports not only the students’ grasp of celestial motions but also their ability to identify predictable patterns in the universe. "It’s incredible to see their excitement as they work through these concepts together. You can truly hear their learning in the conversations they have," Ms. Gurganus remarked.
The activity highlights the value of blending research, modeling, and group discussion to create a rich learning environment. Through these efforts, the students demonstrated a growing mastery of the Earth-Moon-Sun system and an appreciation for the interconnected nature of our planet’s place in the cosmos.